So you want to study Nursing Science at a university in Nigeria? Excellent choice. Nursing is a noble profession that is always in high demand. Before you get too excited about which school to apply to, you need to make sure you meet the minimum cut off mark for Nursing Science set by JAMB. If you didn’t ace your UTME, don’t worry; with the right preparation, you can still gain admission. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, or JAMB, sets the minimum cut off mark for all university programs in Nigeria, including Nursing Science. The cut off mark varies each year depending on several factors.
Read on to know the JAMB cut off mark for Nursing Science 2023/2024 academic session.
What is a JAMB Cut Off Mark?
The JAMB cut off mark is the minimum score set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the school for admissions into a particular course. For Nursing Science, the cut off mark is usually a little higher than the general cut off mark.
To get into a Nigerian university, you need to meet their cut off mark. The cut off mark is the minimum score for a particular course that will qualify you to participate in the Post UTME screening exercise.
JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing Science 2023/2024
To get admitted into the Nursing program, you’ll need to meet the JAMB cut off mark for Nursing. For the 2023/2024 admission year, the JAMB cut off mark for Nursing is 200. Although some Schools accept 180, and some over 200. The school of Nursing itself will also determine its own cut off mark, which may be higher than JAMB’s. Some top Nursing schools, like the University of Lagos, may require 250 or above.
To stand a good chance, you should aim for at least 250 and above in the JAMB UTME. The higher your score, the better your chances of not only gaining admission but also being admitted into your school of choice. Other factors like your O’level results, admission quotas, and catchment areas may also determine if you’re offered admission. But meeting the cut off mark is the first crucial step.
For your O’level, focus on doing well in the following subjects:
- English Language – This is compulsory for all candidates. You’ll need at least a credit to qualify for Nursing Science.
- Biology – Biology is directly related to Nursing. Score an A or B to be competitive.
- Chemistry – Nurses need to understand medications and how the human body works. Get an A or B in Chemistry.
- Physics – While less directly related, Physics provides a good scientific foundation. Aim for at least a C.
- Mathematics
Factors That Determine the Nursing Cut Off Mark
The JAMB cut off mark for Nursing Science depends on several factors.
Competition
The number of candidates that apply for the Nursing program compared to the available spaces influences the cut off mark. More applicants mean higher cut off marks.
University and Course Preferences
The universities and courses candidates choose also affect the cut off mark. Top choice universities and courses usually have higher cut off marks. Many candidates prefer universities like the University of Lagos, the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, etc., for Nursing. These schools are likely to have higher cut off marks.
Candidates’ Performance
How well candidates perform in the UTME also determines the cut off mark. If most candidates score high marks, the cut off will be higher. But if performance is poor, cut off marks are lower. JAMB aims for a reasonable number of candidates to be eligible for admission.
Admission Quota
The number of spaces available for admission into the Nursing program at each university influences their cut off mark. Universities with lower admission quotas are likely to set higher cut off marks to limit the number of eligible candidates. Those with more spaces may set lower cut off marks to fill up admission slots.
University Autonomy
Universities have the autonomy to set their cut off marks for Nursing and other courses based on the factors above. While JAMB sets the minimum cut off mark, universities are at liberty to increase theirs based on their peculiarities. Some universities are known to set cut off marks higher than JAMB’s minimum.
In summary, competition, course preferences, candidates’ scores, admission quotas, and university autonomy are major factors that determine the Nursing cut off mark for each academic year.
Tips to Score Above the Nursing Cut Off Mark
To score above the JAMB cut off mark for Nursing, here are some tips:
Prepare well ahead of time
Start preparing for the exam at least 4 months before. Attend tutorial sessions, study your course materials, and practice with past questions. This will ensure you have a good grasp of the topics.
Focus on compulsory subjects
Subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and English are compulsory for the exam. Focus your time and efforts on these subjects. Know them in and out.
Work on your weaknesses
Identify topics or subjects you struggle with and spend more time strengthening them. Ask your teacher or tutor for help in those areas. With continuous practice, you will gain mastery.
Solve many past questions
Past questions expose you to the exam format and structure. Solve as many as you can to get familiar with the style of questions. This will make you faster and more confident during the exam.
Prepare for the computer-based test (CBT)
The exam is CBT, so ensure you get adequate practice with a computer to avoid wasting time. Learn the necessary computer skills and how to navigate through the CBT platform.
Stay healthy and reduce anxiety
Get enough rest, eat well, and exercise. This will keep you in top shape for the exam. Also, practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing to reduce anxiety and panic.
Believe in yourself
Develop a positive mindset. Believe in your abilities and preparation. Tell yourself you will excel and meet the cut off mark. This will help you stay focused and confident during the exam.
What to do if you do not meet the JAMB Cut Off Mark
If your average score does not meet the cut off mark, you may want to consider other options like:
- Retaking the UTME to improve your scores.
- Applying for another course with a lower cut off mark.
- Apply to a Nursing school
- Exploring admission into Nursing programs in private universities, which often have lower cut-off marks.
- Gaining admission into a Nursing program through Direct Entry if you have the required qualifications.
Make sure you understand the process and meet the required cut off mark for your course of choice.
What is a Good JAMB Score For Nursing Science?
To get into the Nursing Science department in a good Nigerian university, you need a competitive JAMB score. A good score for nursing is usually around 200 and above. Some universities may accept lower while some may require higher.
What score is needed for UNILAG, OAU, UNIBEN, or UI?
For prestigious schools like the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), University of Benin (UNIBEN) or University of Ibadan (UI), you will typically need a minimum score of 250 above to be considered for nursing. These universities are very competitive, so aim for at least 5-10 points above the cut off mark to stand a good chance.
Factors that Determine if you will be Admitted to Study Nursing
Some other factors that determine if you will be admitted for nursing include:
- Your O’Level results, especially in required subjects like English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Good grades in these subjects will boost your chances.
- Your UTME subject combination. The right subject combination for Nursing is English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
- The number of candidates that apply for that year. If more people apply, the cut off mark is likely to be higher.
- Post UTME screening. Most schools conduct post-UTME tests and use candidates’ scores to determine final admission. You need to also work hard to get a good score here.
In summary, to gain admission to Nursing Science in a good Nigerian university, aim for at least 200 in your UTME, good O’Level grades, the proper subject combination, and prepare well for any post-UTME tests. While higher JAMB scores do not guarantee admission, especially in competitive schools, a score of 250 and above will position you well. Frequently Asked Questions on JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing
Here are some of the most asked questions about JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing
What is the cut off mark for Nursing in JAMB?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) cut off mark for Nursing Science varies each year depending on various factors like the general performance of candidates in the UTME, available slots, etc. For the 2021/2022 academic session, the cut off mark for Nursing Science was pegged at 180 and above by JAMB.
What are the admission requirements for Nursing in Nigeria?
To gain admission to study Nursing Science, you need to:
- Meet the JAMB cut off mark for Nursing.
- Have five O’level credits in subjects, which must include English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and one other subject.
- Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
Can I study Nursing without Mathematics?
No, Mathematics is a compulsory requirement to study Nursing. Candidates must have at least a credit pass in Mathematics in their O’level result to be eligible to study Nursing.
What is the career prospect for a Nurse?
Nurses have excellent career prospects. As a registered nurse, you can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and public health departments. Experienced nurses can become nurse practitioners and nursing instructors or advance to leadership roles like nurse managers or nursing directors. Nurses are always in high demand, so job security is very strong.
What is the duration for studying Nursing in Nigeria?
The duration for studying Nursing in Nigeria is usually 5 years at federal, state, or private institutions. At the end of the program, you will be awarded a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Science (B.N.Sc.). For schools and colleges of nursing, it’s usually a 3-year programme. At the end of the program, you will be awarded an RN degree.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the cut off Mark for Nursing Science in Nigeria. Now that you know the score you need to aim for, you can start preparing for the exam with confidence. Study hard, focus on your weak areas, and practice plenty of past questions. Remember that nursing is a noble profession, and the rewards of getting into your dream school and becoming a nurse will make all the effort worthwhile.